NEWS
The University of Oklahoma officially welcomed its largest freshman class in school history at the annual Class Kickoff event, held this evening at the Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. With more than 4,700 students, the Class of 2026 is also breaking additional university records, with a higher average GPA than any other incoming freshman class and more students identifying as underrepresented minorities than any other year.
The Class of 2026 was welcomed to OU with a BBQ dinner, a pre-ceremony flyover by the World War II-era Tulsa Warbirds, a commemorative class photo on Owen Field and a celebratory fireworks display at the event’s conclusion.
Featured speakers at the event included OU President Joseph Harroz Jr., head football coach Brent Venables, Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students David Surratt, Senior Vice President and Provost André-Denis Wright and Student Government Association President Zack Lissau.
During his remarks, Harroz encouraged students to use their time at OU as an opportunity for self-discovery and learning how to use their talents to serve the greater good.
“As you go through these next few years and learn about yourself and what truly fulfills you – whatever that is – know that with your OU education, you can change lives,” Harroz said. “Everyone here can make a difference in the lives of others. We are so proud of you. I know that during your time at OU, you’re going to build something truly special.”
Campus on the Norman campus will begin Monday, Aug. 22. More details of the Class of 2026 will be released at that time.
About the University of Oklahoma
Founded in 1890, the University of Oklahoma is a public research university located in Norman, Oklahoma. OU serves the educational, cultural, economic and health care needs of the state, region and nation. For more information visit ou.edu.
